Outemu Black vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Black and SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, each offers unique qualities that may appeal to different users. The Outemu Black is best known for its impressive durability and is categorized as a heavy switch. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switches are renowned for offering a delicate typing experience, making them ideal for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Yanyu's material blend produces a distinctive, crisp sound profile while being categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, feathery, subtle, and polished. Choosing between these switches may depend on your preference for typing feel and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Black and the SP-Star Yanyu switches differ in their housing materials. The Black features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness that results in a clearer and more resonant sound profile. This material is ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its top housing, offering a unique sound profile that leans towards brightness rather than sharpness. While the Black's top housing focuses on creating a sharper sound, the Yanyu's top housing aims for a brighter tone.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Outemu Black uses nylon to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder tone. On the contrary, the Yanyu's bottom housing also features the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, providing a sound profile that is pleasant and leans towards brightness. Both switches offer unique sound profiles due to the different materials used in their bottom housings, with the Black focusing on depth and fullness while the Yanyu aims for brightness.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the Black and Yanyu switches have differences in their housing materials, the qualities each material brings to the switch are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of materials used in their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, significant differences can be observed. The Outemu Black switch has a high actuation force of 65 grams and a heavy bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu switch has an unknown actuation force and a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. The Outemu Black switch is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, making it suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is lighter, making it ideal for those who value extended typing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Black linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users will experience a consistent key press feel with either switch, as they both require the same amount of travel from the top of the key to the bottom. The similar travel distance of these switches allows for a consistent typing experience, whether it be for gaming or work purposes. Overall, the Outemu Black and SP-Star Yanyu switches offer a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
The Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Black linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which means it falls in the middle ground in terms of actuation force requirement and sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. The material blend of the Yanyu switch contributes to its crisp sound profile, making it a great option for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or engaging in extended typing sessions. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black switch's characteristics are not specified, while the SP-Star Yanyu switch is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. This means that the Yanyu switch offers a gentle typing experience with light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable typing feel. The polished finish of the Yanyu switch ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Black linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Black switch is known for being neutral, while the Yanyu switch provides a thocky sound profile and a gentle typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and are suitable for different preferences and typing styles. If you prefer a more moderate sound and are looking for a versatile switch, the Outemu Black may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you value a satisfying sound and a comfortable typing feel, the SP-Star Yanyu switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a heavy, linear switch with a more robust typing experience, the Outemu Black switch with its 82-gram bottom out force would be your choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a more delicate typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu switch with its 43-gram bottom out force would be the ideal option. The Yanyu switch is also perfect for extended typing sessions with its gentle feel and crisp sound profile. Ultimately, your decision would depend on your preference for typing force, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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